Today, we will discuss one of the most beautiful parts of our country. Of the world, as a matter of fact. From misty coves in the Pacific Northwest, all the way to the sun-kissed beaches in California, the western United States is gifted with some of the most charming coastal towns.
Here, time slows down, waves roll in rhythmically, and locals greet each other like old friends. Whether you’re searching for a romantic getaway, a serene retreat, or simply a coastal town full of character and color, the West Coast will deliver. Let’s take a journey together along the western shoreline and discover the most delightful coastal gems.
Carmel-by-the-sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea resembles something taken from a storybook. Located somewhere on California’s Monterey Peninsula, this beautiful town is well-known for its European-style cottages, flower-filled courtyards, and white-sand beaches.
With zero street numbers on homes, as well as an ordinance against neon signs, Carmel is fiercely dedicated to preserving its quaint, small-town charm. The town is an artist’s haven, boasting plenty of galleries, artisan shops, and independent boutiques.
Walk down Ocean Avenue, you might find charming bakeries, wine tasting rooms, as well as cozy inns. Close to the Carmel Beach, you can take a romantic sunset stroll, where cypress trees stand watch over crashing Pacific waves. If you get the chance, don’t miss the scenic 17-Mile Drive or nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach boasts a beautiful blend of natural beauty and small-town sophistication. Dominated by the iconic Haystack Rock, this particular seaside village is nestled in Oregon’s rugged northern coast.
It has broad beaches, dramatic rock formations, and wind-swept shores that make it a paradise for the eye. The town is filled with beautiful restaurants, art galleries, and family-run lodges. Cannon Beach has quite an artistic identity, hosting a series of events such as the Stormy Weather Arts Festival, as well as the Sandcastle Contest.
Close to the Ecola State Park, there are scenic hikes and panoramic views of the coastline, while tide pools close to the Haystack Rock are teeming with sea stars and anemones. Cannon Beach is the perfect blend of coastal nature and quiet culture.
Mendocino, California
Perched on a bluff above the Pacific Ocean, Mendocino is a small coastal village with tons of character. Located in Northern California, this former logging town is well-known for its bohemian flair, Victorian architecture, as well as dramatic sea cliffs.
Mendocino has been drawing artists, writers, and other free spirits for so long. The Mendocino Art Center hosts a creative community that loves its foggy mornings and ocean breezes. Local shops sell handcrafted goods, and the town is embraced by state parks where redwoods welcome the sea.
La Jolla, California
La Jolla, also known as the “Jewel of San Diego,” still lives up to its nickname, with beautiful beaches, upscale boutiques, and Mediterranean beauty. This seaside enclave can be both luxurious and laid-back because that’s where surfers share a common space with sea lions, as well as ocean-view restaurants that offer some of the best seafood in the region.
La Jolla Cove is definitely one of the best spots for snorkeling, kayaking, and watching the waves crash against the rocky cliffs. Moreover, the downtown area of La Jolla packs a beautiful mix of fine dining, galleries, and high-end shopping, while the nearby Birch Aquarium and Torrey Pines State Reserve offer nature-focused adventures.
Whether you want to enjoy brunch on Prospect Street or just explore tide pools, La Jolla is truly all about casual coastal elegance.
Port Townsend, Washington
Located somewhere on the northeastern tip of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend gives you the feeling of a coastal town from another era. With beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, maritime museums, and a thriving arts scene, this special, historic seaport blends old-world charm with contemporary culture.
In fact, the Port’s waterfront is enriched with wooden boats, seafood restaurants, and salty breezes. Visit Fort Worden Historical State Park for beachcombing, hiking, and panoramic views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The town also hosts plenty of festivals throughout the year, including the Wooden Boat Festival and Port Townsend Film Festival, attracting all kinds of creatives and adventurers alike. Its location is close to the Olympic National Park, which makes it the ideal getaway for nature lovers.
Morro Bay, California
Morro Bay, located somewhere on California’s Central Coast, is known for its impressively distinctive natural landmark, Morro Rock, a massive volcanic plug that rises 576 feet above the harbor. This small fishing town will offer you the much-needed quiet, relaxed pace that makes it such a favorite for both families and solo travelers who seek a break from the city noise.
The Embarcadero, Morro Bay’s waterfront street, has lined up numerous seafood restaurants, saltwater taffy shops, and mom-and-pop stores. You can simply kayak in the calm estuary, go bird-watching, and take a boat tour to see sea otters and other harbor seals.
You are also going to love all the hiking trails lined up in its park, and an 18-hole golf course with breathtaking ocean views. It’s quite a friendly town, where life revolves around the sea.
Friday Harbor, Washington
Situated somewhere close to the San Juan Islands, off the coast of Washington, Friday Harbor is quite a picturesque town that opens its “arms” to travelers coming by ferry. The harbor is lined with plenty of sailboats, charming inns, and waterfront cafes, creating a beautiful yet vibrant scene.
This island town is ideal for travelers who are looking to slow down and seize the day. Orca whale watching is definitely something worth trying, especially during summer months, and kayaking through the quiet inlets provides a much closer look at the island’s marine life.
The town also has plenty of art galleries, historic buildings, and the renowned Whale Museums. It’s the perfect base for exploring the other San Juan Islands and also experiencing the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Avila Beach, California
Tucked into a protected cove on California’s Central Coast, Avila Beach is definitely a sunny, family-friendly oasis that might get overlooked in favor of its bigger neighbors. But those who know it very well will also tell you that this place is filled with magic.
With its gentle surf, beaches, and colorful beachfront, the beach is the ideal location for swimming, paddleboarding, and leisure walks. Local farmers’ markets, boutique hotels, and wine tasting rooms make the experience even better.
In its vicinity, you can explore hot springs, hike through oak-dotted hills, and visit the Valley Barn for homemade pies. It’s exactly the town that you never want to live.
Bandon, Oregon
Bandon could be just a small town, but it definitely leaves a huge impression. Located on Oregon’s southern coast, the town is well-known for its dramatic sea stacks, wild beaches, and friendly atmosphere.
It has a natural beauty that’s simply breathtaking, especially at sunset, because that’s when the ocean lights up with color. Its Old Town district is also beautiful, offering all kinds of local shops, galleries, and waterfront eateries.
Golf enthusiasts gather at the nearby Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, which is by far one of the best in town. Whether you want to hike along the beach, fly a kite in the wind, or sip some coffee while watching other people surf, this is the place for you.
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